Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — Saudi Arabia hosted a meeting in Jeddah on Thursday between Syria’s Minister of Defense, Maj. Gen. Eng. Murhaf Abu Qasra, and Lebanon’s Minister of National Defense, Maj. Gen. Michel Mansi, along with their accompanying security delegations.

The meeting was held under the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.

The meeting, held on March 27, 2025, was attended by Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman.

Discussions focused on issues of mutual concern aimed at enhancing security and stability between Syria and Lebanon.

The two sides signed an agreement underscoring the strategic importance of border demarcation between the two countries.

They agreed to form legal and technical committees across various fields and activate coordination mechanisms to address security and military challenges, particularly those that may arise along their shared border.

Both parties also agreed to hold a follow-up meeting in Saudi Arabia in the near future.

Prince Khalid bin Salman praised the signing of the agreement. “We hope this agreement marks the beginning of a new phase in the relations between the two countries based on mutual cooperation and constructive dialogue that fulfills both countries’ aspirations while maintaining their security and stability,” he said.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both Syrian and Lebanese defense ministers expressed their gratitude to the Saudi leadership and to Prince Khalid bin Salman for hosting and sponsoring the dialogue. They also expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the talks.

Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its full support for initiatives that enhance the security and stability of Syria and Lebanon, contributing to broader regional peace.